Over 300 contestants are expected to take part in the 2nd edition of the Mr and Miss East Africa natural bodybuilding contest happening this Saturday at Rupaz Fun and Fitness Centre in Eldoret.

The last edition saw a total of 148 contestants battle for Sh1 million in prize money, where Rashid Gift Issa and Caren Mulyanga were crowned champions.

This year’s prize purse has been raised to Sh.2.5 million in a move to bring in more competitors and spread awareness about bodybuilding.

Earlier this year the organisers added three new categories in the contest; classic, masters and a special category for persons living with disabilities.

The organisers also held a seminar to sensitise the athletes on the harmful effects of doping and the consequences that would follow should any athlete be found.

Event Coordinator Joseph Mugo said that they would take serious action against contestants found doping. He also added that last year they found four contestants with cases of doping and they were banned from participating in the contest for four years.

“Culturally, we have heard of bodybuilders using steroids among so many doping elements. We want to make sure that we build a culture of clean athletes who are able to play clean,” he said.

“We had four cases of doping in the last edition and subsequently the contestants have been barred from participating in the vent for the next four years.”

The seminar also equipped the athletes with knowledge on mental health with counselling psychologist Trizah Muthoni urging more men to participate in bodybuilding to improve their mental health.

“We know it is more men now who are dying of suicide and this is because men hardly talk about their issues and so one of the ways men can improve their mental health is through working out,” she said.

Guest judge Robert Phil will officiate the contest alongside other East African judges. Sports CS Ababu Namwamba is also expected to grace the event.